Children are an integral part of the Hanukkah celebration. In fact many of the traditional elements of the holiday are designed to teach them about the holiday itself. The lightiing of the candles reminds them of the miracle which happened when the Temple was to be re-dedicated. Foods cooked in oil remind them that the miracle involved the lampstand whose wicks were dipped in oil to burn. One of the most-loved traditions is the dreidel game which came about in a time of great oppression. Banned from religious services and practice, but allowed to gamble, the Jews of ancient times designed this four sided top with the acronym of the phrase "A great miracle happened there". As the children played, they repeated the phrase. But if a soldier should happen by, the candies and prizes awarded or captured depending on which letter you rolled, looked like an innocent game of chance. One of the oldest songs of Hanukkah highlights this fun little toy:
I have a little dreidel,
I made it out of clay,
And when it's dry and ready,
A dreidel game I'll play.
@amyjriker Thank you Amy! I glad you enjoyed it! @potsbypam Thanks Pam! Me too- and now I am enjoying passing on the traditions to a second generation. Leigh really had fun helping me with this shot- perhaps she is a future 365er!
@summerfield Thanks Summerfield- we have marveled at how pretty Leigh is getting as she grows older. I'm glad you're enjoying the series. It's been a fun thing to squeeze in at the end of year one.
@potsbypam Thanks Pam! Me too- and now I am enjoying passing on the traditions to a second generation. Leigh really had fun helping me with this shot- perhaps she is a future 365er!
@kerristephens Thank you Kerri!
@allie912 Thank you Allison- and thank you for the fav!!
@sarasdadandmom Thank you Terry!
Thank you all! This is my beautiful granddaughter Leigh who helped me out by lighting the candles for this shot. (o:
@shuterfly Thank you Sondra! I am a little partial to my granddaughter! I truly appreciate your comment!